Insteon Taps Cortana for Windows 8.1 App

Users will soon be able to control and monitor their home by speaking to Microsoft’s intelligent assistant.

Last month, Apple announced plans to release HomeKit, a new home automation platform that will link connected devices with iPads and iPhones. While that doesn’t really sound all that new, one interesting perk is that HomeKit will incorporate Siri. Since the announcement, there hasn’t been too much additional movement on HomeKit, giving Insteon the chance to swoop in with a similar plan.

Insteon just debuted plans to integrate Cortana into its Windows 8.1 Phone app. In case you didn’t know, Cortana is Microsoft’s answer to Siri. The “intelligent assistant” uses language and text to set and send reminders, launch applications, respond to inquiries, and provide suggestions. Combining Cortana and Insteon will allow users to complete a variety of Electronic House tasks using the sound of their voice.

For instance, you could ask Cortana to adjust the thermostat, turn on lights, or just set the room for “Movie Time.”

Insteon has dual-band technology, which uses your existing powerlines and radio-frequency (RF) communication instead of Wi-Fi. That way, there’s no interference and no need for new wiring in the home. For a peek at available products, check out the Insteon website.

“Using Cortana to control our products is the next logical step as our relationship with Microsoft continues to evolve,”said Joe Dada, CEO of Insteon. “Our long-term goal is to give users complete autonomy over their homes and smart products. Adding Cortana into the mix is just another way that we can make people’s lives easier.”

Cortana will be available as part of the Insteon Windows Phone app in the coming months.